By Clement Abayomi
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) in the UK has warned that British food prices are set to increase due to ongoing tension in the Middle East, leading to a disruption in global supply chains.
It is believed that the conflict will specifically affect the cost of fuel and fertiliser needed to grow crops and produce milk.
As reported on BBC, the main cause of the pressure is a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow sea route is vital for the movement of the world’s natural gas and oil.
Because the route has been effectively closed for over three weeks, the cost of energy has spiked.
The NFU president Tom Bradshaw explained that this situation will “turn the world supply upside down” and have a major impact on how food is produced.
Shoppers, according to the NFU, might see the first changes in the next six weeks.
Vegetables grown in heated glasshouses, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, will likely be affected first because they require a lot of natural gas.
Other products, including milk and field crops, could see price increases within three to six months as the higher costs of fertiliser and “red diesel” fuel reach the farms.
Farmers and supermarkets may absorb some of these extra expenses, but the NFU stated that some costs will inevitably be passed on to customers.
The British Retail Consortium added that while retailers are experienced at managing such disruptions, sustained high energy prices will eventually impact the price of goods on the shelves.
In response to these concerns, senior government ministers have planned to hold an emergency meeting.
Farming Minister Angela Eagle maintained that the government is monitoring the situation closely.
The meeting, according to BBC, will possibly focus on how the conflict is affecting the general cost of living, including food, petrol, and household energy bills.
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